Beyond the Booth: Trade Show Secrets, 24/7 Showrooms, and Lead Systems That Scale

Is your remodeling business stuck in old-school marketing, and missing out on modern lead-gen magic? This episode of The Builder’s Edge unpacks how to create experiences that don’t just attract customers, but empower them. We sit down with Tony Hoty, a Cleveland-based innovator who transformed his door-to-door hustle into an $11 million remodeling empire. From pioneering the first-ever 24-hour showroom to mastering trade shows that actually convert, Tony is rewriting the playbook on what it means to connect with homeowners, online and in person. In this conversation, we explore how Tony built scalable, repeatable systems for lead generation, why your sales team might be killing conversions at trade shows, and how a mindset shift toward “serving, not selling” changes everything. You’ll also hear how Tony’s review strategy led to a rare 5.0 rating, and why he believes personal connection, not automation, will define the next wave of growth in the trades. What You’ll Learn: The #1 mistake most contractors make at trade shows, and how to fix it How Tony’s 24-hour showroom is changing how homeowners shop for renovations Why attraction beats pursuit in both digital and physical marketing The power of systemizing your lead generation, even down to phone scripts How blending AI with authenticity is the real competitive edge "Being an entrepreneur is about optimism, focusing on the opportunity, not the obstacle."  If this episode challenged your thinking, share it with another builder or contractor. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss practical strategies that give your business the edge. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices